Paripally Gajamela is an annual festival observed in the southern Indian state of Kerala which is held at Kodimootil Sree Bhadrakali Temple which is characterised by a beautiful elephant pageant. The term 'Gajamela' is obtained from two words 'Gajam' which implies elephant in the Malayalam language and 'Mela' means fair. On the 10th day of this festive event, a grand elephant parade is organised which involves over 50 elephants and this parade in Paripally town located in Thiruvananthapuram. Innumerable tourists visit Kerala to witness this popular and interesting event. The festival is conducted in the period from February to March and is said to be amongst the most important temple festivals of Kerala.
Thousands of pilgrims offer the elephants to Goddess Bhadrakali in the temple of this Goddess as it is believed that doing so would usher in wealth, good luck and prosperity to them. 'Nerch' is the name of the main ritual which is associated with this festival. Beautifully caparisoned elephants move in an organised procession which presents a unique view to all the assembled spectators. 'Mahouts' or keepers of these elephants are mounted on the backs of the attractively dressed up and decorated elephants, which carry 'muthukuda' or silk parasols and swaying 'venchamaram' or white tufts, in accordance to the temple orchestra.
Five musical instruments or 'panchvadyam' are employed to accompany the musical rhythm of the event and this represents the 'kudamattam' rite. This ritual implies altering the positions of the parasols on top of the tuskers. During Paripally Gajamela festival, various kinds of cultural programmes are conducted throughout the entire nights. Numerable people participate in these events.
This article is a stub. You can enrich by adding more information to it. Send your Write Up to content@indianetzone.com
(Last Updated on : 12-03-2014)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recently Updated Articles in Indian Festivals
|
|
|
• | Jammu and Kashmir Temple Festivals Jammu and Kashmir temple festivals are closely knitted with north Indian culture and tradition. The state celebrates many religious occasions in complete fervor. These temple festivals now represent a part of the culture and tradition of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
| | • | Uttar Pradesh Temple Festivals Uttar Pradesh Temple Festivals include almost all national festivals along with some of the regional festivals of north India. this state celebrates each festival with great fervor mirroring the cultural and social unity of the people.
| | • | Hindu Festivals Hindu festivals are observed according to the lunar and solar calendars. These are festivals that are celebrated throughout the year. They are region specific and bear different names.
| | • | Chhattisgarh Temple Festivals Chhattisgarh temple festivals are some of the spectacular events in the state, participated by all age groups. These festivals not only reflect the culture of the natives but also mirror social harmony among people in this state.
| | • | Mizoram Temple Festivals Mizoram temple festivals, influenced by tribal rituals reflect the aboriginal culture of the state. Majority of festivals are focused on agricultural harvest and are celebrated with dance, family get together and grand feats.
| | |
|
|
|
|